Astronautics Group

James Web telescope in space with earth on the bottom right.

Our group covers a wide range of fundamental and applied research in space physics and spacecraft engineering.

About

Our members are active in both theoretical modelling and physical experimentation and are supported by a wide range of computational and experimental facilities.

Particular areas of expertise include:

space environment
remote sensing
spacecraft structures
space systems engineering
artificial intelligence, spacecraft autonomy and control

We have industry partnerships with:

And we have been sponsored by the:

We have also been a leading centre for the training of professional engineers in the worldwide space sector and associated industries since 1974.

Research highlights

Sustainability at astronomical levels

Engineering

Environment, sustainability and clean growth

Space

A space research collaboration between the University and Astroscale UK Ltd has made considerable progress towards a safe and sustainable orbital environment.

Enhancing astronaut health and helping physiotherapists consult during COVID

Health and wellbeing

Space

Health researchers share their insights to support both astronauts in space and people on Earth.

People

Dr Alexander Wittig

Associate Professor

Research interests

Astrodynamics and Orbital Mechanics
Mission Design and Analysis
Numerical Methods including Differential Algebra and High Order Automatic Differentiation

Email: a.wittig@soton.ac.uk

Address: Boldrewood Campus, Burgess Road, SO16 7QF (View in Google Maps)

ORCID

Dr Charlie Ryan

Associate Professor

Email: c.n.ryan@soton.ac.uk

Address: Boldrewood Campus, Burgess Road, SO16 7QF (View in Google Maps)

Dr Hanna Sykulska-Lawrence

Associate Professor

Research interests

Hanna's research interests involve the miniaturization of scientific instrumentation for the in-situ study of planets. With a focus on instrument and new technology development, she is currently leading a number of projects, including the development of a miniature wideband radiometer for the in-situ study of planetary atmospheres and also the miniaturization of a Raman Spectrometer for Jupiter’s moon Europa. Previously, she has worked on miniaturizing a variety of sensors for planetary exploration, including a wind sensor for Mars, a MEMS microseismometer and micromachined bolometer detector arrays for a thermal mapping spectrometer for a lunar mission. In particular, she was involved in designing, fabricating, delivering and operating two microscopes on NASA’s Phoenix Mars Lander 2007.
Hanna's research interests involve the miniaturization of scientific instrumentation for the in-situ study of planets. With a focus on instrument and new technology development, she is currently leading a number of projects, including the development of a miniature wideband radiometer for the in-situ study of planetary atmospheres and also the miniaturization of a Raman Spectrometer for Jupiter’s moon Europa. Previously, she has worked on miniaturizing a variety of sensors for planetary exploration, including a wind sensor for Mars, a MEMS microseismometer and micromachined bolometer detector arrays for a thermal mapping spectrometer for a lunar mission. In particular, she was involved in designing, fabricating, delivering and operating two microscopes on NASA’s Phoenix Mars Lander 2007.
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